Carlos Sainz will sit out the remainder of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend. The Spaniard will be replaced by reserve driver Oliver Bearman, who will make his Formula 1 race debut. Sainz was absent during the traditional pre-event media day on Wednesday in Jeddah, returning to his hotel due to feeling unwell following a brief spell at the track. However, he returned to the event on Thursday and took part in the first two practice sessions despite still suffering from symptoms. Ferrari confirmed on Friday afternoon in Jeddah that Sainz will now require surgery after being diagnosed with appendicitis. The team added in a statement: “The Ferrari family wishes Carlos a speedy recovery.”
Bearman is carrying out reserve driver duties at Ferrari and Haas this year and made his FP1 debut with the latter in 2023. The 18-year-old Briton is present in Saudi Arabia with Formula 2 and qualified on pole position during qualifying on Thursday. However, due to his call-up, Bearman will no longer compete in F2 activities this weekend. With his debut, Bearman will be the youngest driver to ever compete in a Grand Prix with Ferrari and the third youngest to race in F1.
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